Question

How is the cross sectional shape of a glacial valley different from a valley formed by stream erosion?

Answer 1

A glacial valley cross-sectional shape is a U shape whereas a stream valley is usually a V shape. The U shape comes from the scouring action of the alpine glaciers which carries rocks with it which can abrade the walls of the valley and the glacier occupies the whole valley so scours out such a shape whereas the stream cuts down and water washes in from the sides of the valley into the stream or river creating the V shape.